Penn State University Hot Work Permits

Safety Precautions

Safety Precautions (cont’d) Anything that can burn must be removed or protected from the immediate work area. Requirements within 35 feet: Area within 35 feet of the work area has been properly swept to remove any combustible debris. Flammable and ignitable materials and debris have been moved at least 35 feet from the hot work area or covered and protected with fire resistant materials. Cracks or holes in floors, walls and ceilings (including ductwork) are covered or plugged. Combustible floors covered with fire-resistive material Requirements within 50 feet: Explosives, compressed gas cylinders or stored fuel have been moved at least 50 feet from the hot work area or have been protected from the hot work. Work on walls or Ceilings Construction is noncombustible and has no combustible covering or insulation. Areas adjacent to walls being worked on are checked for combustibles and any combustibles are either removed or protected.

Fire Watch Fire Watch Fire watch will be provided during and for at least 30 minutes after work, and during any coffee or lunch breaks. Fire watch is supplied with suitable extinguishers, or charged small hose. Fire watch is trained in use of this equipment and in sounding alarm. Fire Watch Personnel's main responsibility is to monitor the area for the possible development of fire from the hot work. Other job tasks can be performed as long as they are able to adequately monitor the area for potential fire. • Fire Watch Personnel must be trained to use fire extinguishers or other fire extinguishing equipment that is present. • Fire Watch Personnel must be aware of how to report emergencies and to activate building fire alarm systems. • Fire Watch Personnel must be identified and their qualifications verified prior to commencing hot work.